Wednesday, 31 August 2011

Sceptical realist

I think I've formalised my position on geoengineering...

I am skeptical realist: I know, unequivocally, that reducing carbon emissions is the right thing to do. I believe that CDR has the best long term outcome if we can’t do that, as it deals with the problem at source, but it’s not a free ride. There are some serious technical and ethical challenges there too. However, if we suddenly find ourselves in a period of rapid-onset climate instability the only way out is SRM. It’s the only thing we could do in a short timeframe to mitigate the effects of such an event. Given that, it has be on the table as an option to be investigated. That is all we are doing.

I am skeptical that geoengineering is the right option (I am pretty green at heart, really) but realistic enough to know that it may be required.

I want to make it clear that I have no vested interest in making SPICE work. I do not stand to profit from it and I will report any scientific findings honestly, transparently and without bias.